Satellite Imagery Analysis
Using techniques borrowed from geology and military applications, I use open source satellite imagery for investigations. For example, I worked with Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret (WFUV,CBS,WILX,WJRT, & KRQE) to examine how land use in Albuquerque, New Mexico has impacted would-be landing sites for hot air balloons.
By comparing satellite imagery collected in the 1990s to modern images, we were able to identify and measure dirt lots — i.e. prime balloon landing spaces — that have now disappeared. After digitally stitching imagery and mapping out individual lots, we calculated that about 75% of the key landing spaces have been built-over…and that means there’s a higher risk of crash landings, and the International Balloon Fiesta has had to limit the number of balloons that can fly.
